Orson Scott Card

Earlier this year science-fiction fans were elated to see the first footage from Ender’s Game, and now it’s like nobody wants to go near it. Due to the views on same-sex relationships and gay rights from Ender’s Game author, Orson Scott Card, the film has become a public relations disaster, with many fans looking to boycott the film. In the eyes of Lionsgate that is the kiss of death for their hopes of a future franchise hit.

In order to try to quell the fire Orson released a statement requesting we show tolerance to his intolerance, which only increased the call for more boycotts. For a multi-million dollar production like Ender’s Game that spells disaster and Lionsgate, the parent company of Summit Entertainment, have had enough of the controversy. Looking to distance themselves from the views of Card and referencing their own beliefs towards the LGBT community, the studio has released a statement of their very own.

How it will be received remains to be seen, but here’s a look at the full statement via Deadline:

As proud longtime supporters of the LGBT community, champions of films ranging from Gods and Monsters to The Perks of Being a Wallflower and a company that is proud to have recognized same-sex unions and domestic partnerships within its employee benefits policies for many years, we obviously do not agree with the personal views of Orson Scott Card and those of the National Organization for Marriage. However, they are completely irrelevant to a discussion of Ender’s Game. The simple fact is that neither the underlying book nor the film itself reflect these views in any way, shape or form. On the contrary, the film not only transports viewers to an entertaining and action-filled world, but it does so with positive and inspiring characters who ultimately deliver an ennobling and life-affirming message. Lionsgate will continue its longstanding commitment to the LGBT community by exploring new ways we can support LGBT causes and, as part of this ongoing process, will host a benefit premiere for Ender’s Game.

How does this make you feel? Will a future fundraiser in the form of a benefit premiere for the LGBT community help or hinder Lionsgate’s promotion of Ender’s Game? Should something more be done about Orson?